Development of a Psychological First Aid Model Based on Crisis Emergency Theory to Improve COVID-19 Psychological Readiness: The Best Recommendation yet for the Javanese Population

Abstract

Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) has become a health crisis in the world that causes psychological distress to crisis conditions. This study aimed to develop a psychological first-aid model based on the crisis emergency theory on psychological readiness to face COVID-19. This was explanatory survey research with a cross-sectional approach. The population in this study were all people on Java Island with a sample size of 1218 respondents and was taken by means of convenience sampling. Data were collected using a questionnaire from each sub-variable, and then the data were analyzed using partial least squares. The instrument was composed of modified questionnaires that have been tested and declared valid and reliable. There is a significant influence of individual internal factors on mental health crises and emergencies (t = 2.829) and psychological readiness (t = 2.679). Psychological factors affect mental health crises and emergencies (t = 6.533) and psychological readiness (t = 2.261). External factors affect mental health crises and emergencies (t = 2.190) and psychological readiness (t = 2.681). Mental health crises and emergencies affect psychological first aid (t = 3,748), and psychological first aid affects psychological readiness (t = 10,742). The development of psychological first aid modifies the knowledge and attitudes of individuals, and controls the level of stress and anxiety that occurs, coping mechanisms, social support, environment, and supporting facilities.